I can’t imagine a world without beets. One of the reasons is that raw beets are a unique source of phytonutrients called betalains. Studies have shown betalains provide a power house of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and detoxification support.

I know some of us are used to popping beets in the pot to boil, but I beg you to reconsider.

Unlike some other food pigments, betalains undergo very steady loss as the length of cooking time is increased. This is a serious loss we can not afford is we want to reap the true benefits of this super food root vegetable.

Recent laboratory studies on human tumor cells have shown tumors lessen when exposed to betalains. These tumors include colon, stomach, lung, breast, prostate, uterine and testicular. I have no intention of my tumor returning, so I am totally on board for a big dose of betalains.

This is our best time of year to jump on the betalains band wagon. Fall is harvest time for this colorful vegetable, and in many stores the price of organic beets has dropped. I could use another fridge, or maybe a root cellar to stock, as they store well.

To keep S&L, seasonal and local, you may want to check your local farmers market now as most local growers will be bringing them to town for sale.

At Diet For Living Center, we’re excited during beet time. We love the deep pinks and reds as our juicer presses the powerful liquid out of our Omega Juicer. Naturally sweet, low in calories and high in nutrients, we add raw beets daily to our juicing regimen. Here’s our simple fall favorite.

Best Beet Juice Ever Recipe

All raw all organic:

• 3 carrots peeled
• ½ large beet peeled
• 2 granny smith green apples
• 3 lettuce leaves
• ¼ fresh lemon with peel

Feed all of the above through the juice hopper. Pour into a glass and drink right away while fresh.

The best to your health!